You guys definatly bring up some good points about the POTC update. As ISM pointed out, the original goes back in time, but stick Captain Jack in there and- "wait a minute! I saw him at the theater last week!" It's a slap in the face to bring you back to the present. I'm with GD, I'll wait and see.
And as far as the product synergy, it's the reason Disneyland has it's charm. Think about the themeing of any other ride in any other park, it doesn't have the charm, heart, or memorability that the rides at DL have. It's not meant to simply sell product though there is that side to it (look at the shops at the end of the ride for that
). It's so you can experience the movie while on the ride. Otherwise we would all be going around in circles on roller coasters and ferris wheels and calling it a ride.
~Bob